New Orleans: True Crime Pub Crawl

Discover the Dark Side of New Orleans on a True Crime Pub Crawl

If you’re curious about the shadowy history of New Orleans, this True Crime Pub Crawl offers an intriguing way to explore the French Quarter’s notorious past. For just $37 per person, you’ll spend about two hours walking through some of the city’s most storied bars, learning about its infamous criminals, bizarre murders, and strange legends, all while enjoying the lively atmosphere and your favorite drinks. Led by local guides with a flair for storytelling, this tour combines history, crime, and a bit of fun—a memorable way to spend an evening in the Big Easy.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances entertaining storytelling with authentic local hotspots. One guide, Jamie, was praised for her extensive knowledge and ability to make history come alive, while another, Wes, was celebrated for his humor and charisma. On top of that, the tour’s focus on notorious crimes—from the JFK assassination whispers to the Ax Man’s reign of terror—adds a thrilling edge to a night out. A minor consideration is that routes may change due to parades or construction, so some flexibility is needed. This tour is perfect for history buffs, true crime fans, or anyone wanting a unique twist on their night in New Orleans.

This experience is best suited for adults over 21 who are comfortable walking and enjoy stories that blend history, mystery, and local flavor. If you like learning about the city’s darker side and don’t mind a bit of walking between stops, you’ll find this tour both informative and entertaining.

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Key Points

Authentic Bars: Visit historic watering holes with stories woven into their walls.
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Jamie and Wes are praised for their extensive, engaging storytelling.
Infamous Crimes: Learn about notorious figures, the JFK connection, and the Ax Man’s terror.
Two-Hour Experience: Focused, lively, and just enough time to be fun without overdoing it.
Local Insights: Get local tips and tales that you won’t find in tourist guides.
Drink Recommendations: While drinks are not included, guides suggest some of the best sips at each stop, enhancing the experience.

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A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins in the French Quarter, outside Bon’s New Orleans Street Food. This spot is easy to find and offers a lively start for an evening filled with stories. You should arrive ready to walk, with comfortable shoes, and a mindset open to some history, humor, and haunted tales. The tour is conducted rain or shine, so dress appropriately if the weather isn’t perfect. It’s ideal for those who enjoy walking tours combined with a social atmosphere, as you’ll visit several bars, each with its own notorious past.

Tour Highlights and Stops

Each bar has its own unique history, often tied to the city’s darker moments or famous criminals. While the specific routes might shift because of parades or construction, the focus remains on places that have played a role in shaping the city’s infamous reputation.

Learning about JFK’s assassination: The guide will share local legends and alleged involvement of French Quarter residents, adding a layer of intrigue.
The Ax Man: Hear about the mysterious figure who terrorized neighborhoods with his axe, a story that leaves a chill and a sense of unease.
Infamous murders: From stories that have become part of local lore to real crimes that shocked the city, guides bring these stories to life with vivid detail.

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The Guides and Their Stories

Reviews consistently praise guides like Jamie, Wes, Gomez, and Bubby for their extensive knowledge and entertaining delivery. One reviewer described Jamie as “brilliant, with great knowledge,” and another called Wesley “an absolute star,” emphasizing their ability to blend humor with history. These guides also offer local insights that add depth and authenticity to the stories.

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The Atmosphere and Group Dynamics

Expect to be part of small groups, which fosters a more personal experience. Guests have remarked on how guides remember individual names and tailor their stories to the group’s vibe, often adding humor and local recommendations. One reviewer even called a guide “the best guide you could get,” highlighting how personality matters in making the tour memorable.

Drinks and Refreshments

While drinks are not included, guides suggest some of the best local drinks at each stop, which enhances the storytelling. Many participants appreciated the good recommendations and the chance to try local specialties as part of the experience. Keep in mind, since drinks are purchased separately, budgeting for a few cocktails or beers adds to the overall cost.

Duration and Pace

Two hours is just enough time to cover multiple stories without feeling rushed. The tour involves walking between bars, making it a relaxed pace that allows for conversation and spontaneous questions. Some reviews note that the tour might involve a lot of walking—a minor drawback for those with mobility issues—so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

We loved the way the guides bring stories to life with their passion and local knowledge. For example, one reviewer praised Gomez as “fantastic and perfect for this type of tour,” remarking on how he met some people, had a couple drinks, and heard stories—a true reflection of how this tour melds history with social fun.

Another aspect travelers appreciate is the historical context intertwined with local legends. The stories about the JFK assassination and the Ax Man are not just spooky tales—they connect to real events that shaped the city’s identity. These narratives are often supported by local lore and original research, making them more compelling.

Why This Tour Is a Great Value

At $37, the tour offers excellent value for the experience provided. You’re not just paying for a walk but for an entertaining and educational evening. The small group size and knowledgeable guides turn what could be just a bar crawl into a learning experience with a dark twist. Plus, the chance to visit storied bars with history embedded in their walls makes every stop worthwhile.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This pub crawl best suits adults over 21 who enjoy true crime stories, history, and social drinking. If you’re a history buff or a fan of ghost stories, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with a group of friends who enjoy a mix of entertainment and storytelling—many reviewers have called it a highlight of their trip.

FAQs

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. Guides recommend some of the best local options, but you’ll need to purchase your own at each stop.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s designed for adults over 21. The tour involves walking and standing, so those with mobility issues might want to consider this before booking.

What happens if it rains?
The tour goes on rain or shine, so dress appropriately. Some stops are indoors, so the experience remains fun even in bad weather.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now and paying later offers flexibility if plans change.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately two hours, making it a perfect evening activity without feeling overly long.

Are the routes fixed?
Routes may change due to parades or construction, but all stops are selected to highlight the city’s notorious history.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans: True Crime Pub Crawl stands out as a unique way to experience the city’s darker side. Combining entertaining storytelling, historical intrigue, and local bar culture, it offers a memorable evening that appeals to history buffs, crime enthusiasts, and social travelers alike. The guides’ knowledge and charisma make the stories vivid and engaging, turning an ordinary night out into an educational adventure.

For those who enjoy learning about local legends, or simply want to spend a lively evening in the French Quarter with some great stories and drinks, this tour delivers. It’s an especially good pick if you’re traveling in a group or want a small, personalized experience that combines history, mystery, and fun.

In short, this tour is an entertaining, affordable, and authentic way to see a different side of New Orleans—perfect for adults looking for a night of stories, sips, and surprises.